Obtaining Italian citizenship is a dream for many, offering the chance to become part of Italy’s rich cultural heritage, gain EU rights, and strengthen ties to the country. For some, it also represents an opportunity to get closer to their roots and discover the land of their ancestors.
The process, however, involves meeting specific legal, residency, and language requirements. Below is a comprehensive guide to the main requirements for applying for Italian citizenship, with a focus on the language certificate requirement.
1. Types of Italian citizenship
There are several pathways to obtaining Italian citizenship, depending on your circumstances:
Citizenship by descent (Jure Sanguinis):
If you have Italian ancestry, you may qualify through your family line. You’ll need to prove uninterrupted Italian citizenship through birth certificates and legal documents from your ancestors.
Citizenship by marriage:
Spouses of Italian citizens can apply after 2 years of marriage if residing in Italy, or after 3 years if residing abroad. These periods are halved if the couple has children.
Citizenship by naturalization:
Non-EU nationals must reside in Italy for 10 years, while EU nationals only require 4 years of residency. Refugees can apply after 5 years, and stateless individuals after 5 years.
2. General requirements for citizenship application
Regardless of the pathway, all applicants must meet the following:
- Proof of legal residence:
A certificate (certificato di residenza) showing uninterrupted residency in Italy for the required time period. - Criminal background check:
Applicants must provide clean criminal records from both Italy and their country of origin. - Financial stability:
Proof of income or financial means to support yourself, often through tax returns or salary documentation. - Language proficiency:
A B1 language certificate is mandatory for most applicants, especially those applying for citizenship by marriage or naturalization.
3. Language certificate requirement
The Italian government requires applicants to demonstrate a minimum B1 level of proficiency in the Italian language, as defined by the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
Accepted Language Certificates:
The B1 proficiency must be demonstrated through one of the following recognized certificates:
- CILS (Università per Stranieri di Siena)
- CELI (Università per Stranieri di Perugia)
- PLIDA (Società Dante Alighieri)
- Cert.IT (Università Roma Tre)
These certificates ensure that the applicant can communicate effectively in Italian and understand cultural nuances.
Not there yet? Consider enrolling in one of our Italian language courses to get the preparation needed, pass one of the above Italian tests and receive your B1 certificate.
4. Required documents for application
Here’s a typical checklist for citizenship applications:
- Valid passport.
- Birth certificate (translated and legalized).
- Residency certificate (certificato di residenza).
- Criminal background checks.
- Proof of income or financial stability.
- B1 language proficiency certificate.
- Application form and processing fee payment receipt.
All documents must be translated into Italian and legally authenticated (apostille may be required).
5. Application process
Step 1: Submit your application online through the Ministero dell’Interno
Step 2: Provide all supporting documents to your local Prefettura or Italian consulate if applying abroad.
Step 3: Wait for approval. Processing times vary but can take 2-3 years for naturalization or 6-12 months for marriage.
Step 4: Receive your citizenship. This typically includes a formal appointment with the local mayor, who will present you with the official document confirming your citizenship.
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